Service tracking and alerting system for fitness equipment

ABSTRACT

A service tracking and alerting system for fitness equipment ( 18 ) includes one or more subsystems of multiple control servers ( 20 ) (ICS) to gather real time information from one or more fitness equipment units ( 22, 24 ) (FEU) via wireless connection and store such information in a temporary database ( 25 ). Multiple ICSs are linked to a remotely located accumulated data storage unit or silo ( 26 ) having a permanent storage database ( 27 ). One or more silos ( 26 ) and their corresponding ICSs are controlled, accessed, and interrogated through an enterprise level platform ( 32 ). Service alert messages may be generated and sent to one or more recipients if an FEU experiences a significant service event. Also, a reporting interface ( 190 ) allows users to access, enter, update and/or alter, service usage, warranty, and other information from the data storage units ( 26 ) and ICSs ( 20 ).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 60/442,934, filed Jan. 26, 2003.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention pertains to the servicing of exerciseequipment, especially in clubs, gyms, and other facilities having largenumbers of exercise equipment, and more particularly to a system forautomatically obtaining service information from fitness equipment unitsand automatically sending service alerts to selected recipients whenfitness equipment units require service or repair.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In general, fitness facilities and clubs (such as Gold's Gym,Bally's, 24-Hour Fitness, etc.) obtain service information regardingtheir fitness equipment units (FEUs) via one of two methods. In theolder method, when an FEU becomes inoperative, a patron typically alertsa manager or other personnel at the particular fitness facility. Themanager then inspects the unit and determines whether a telephone callto a service provider is warranted. If so, the provider sends aserviceperson to the facility to diagnose and repair the problem. Theunit is then put back in operation. The information regarding each ofthese events is sometimes manually tracked by the facility and/or theservice provider.

[0004] In the second method, each FEU is equipped with a display screenand various internal monitoring components. The monitoring componentsdetermine when a problem exists within the FEU. The components theneither report this information in the form of an error code displayed onthe unit's screen or simply registers the problem on an internalinterface board. When a particular FEU becomes inoperative, the patronalerts a facility employee of the problem. The employee then goes to theunit to determine whether a telephone call to the service provider isneeded. If so, the provider sends a serviceperson to the facility todiagnose and fix the problem. The FEU is then put back in operation. Asabove, the information regarding each of these events is sometimesmanually tracked by the facility and/or the service provider.

[0005] As will be appreciated, the current situation is labor intensive,costly, time-consuming, error-prone, and inefficient. In addition, andperhaps more importantly, the current system gives patrons a negativeimpression of the fitness facility because the patron is aware of abroken FEU. It also makes patrons irritated in that they have to eitherspend time reporting a broken unit or forego reporting it and feelguilty or disgusted. Moreover, the patron may have to wait until anothersimilar FEU is available for use. Another disadvantage to the abovesystem is that the type and frequency of problems experienced by aparticular FEU is generally lost. This information has use indetermining warranty rights and responsibilities as well as making FEUreplacement decisions. In currently warranty reporting, the facilitymanager generally relies on anecdote and unsubstantiated impressions ofthe performance of a particular FEU.

[0006] Thus, a need exists for a more efficient service tracking andalerting system for FEUs at fitness facilities. A more ideal systemwould be capable of not only tracking such problem events, but also ofimmediately alerting at least the facility personnel when a problem hasarisen. This way, the facility personnel can immediately post an “Out ofService” sign on the machine, and the patron will not have to becomeinvolved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention is directed to fulfilling these needs andothers as described below. The present invention is a service trackingand alerting system for FEUs. Various aspects of the present inventionare presented that may be used in combination or separately. Inaccordance with one aspect, an information tracking system includes acontrol server or ICS to gather real time service information from oneor more FEUs via a wireless connection and to store the information in atemporary database. The service tracking system may include one or moresubsystems of multiple ICSs linked to a remotely located accumulateddata storage unit or silo having a permanent storage data base. Thesingular or multiple silos with their corresponding ICSs may becontrolled, accessed and interrogated through an enterprise levelplatform having associated software and hardware. A service alertmessage may be generated and sent to one or more recipients should oneor more of the FEUs experience a significant service event. A reportinginterface allows users to access service information via the enterpriseplatform from the data storage units and/or the ICSs via the Internet orother type of network, including both real time and history service,usage, warranty, and other information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages ofthis invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomebetter understood by reference to the following detailed description,when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0009]FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment aninformation tracking system, a service tracking system, a service alertmessaging service, and a reporting interface, each formed in accordancewith the present invention; and

[0010]FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a portion of the system of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 1;

[0011]FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a portion of the system of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 2;

[0012]FIG. 4 is a schematic view of another portion of the system of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 1;

[0013]FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a fitness equipment unit thatmay be monitored through the system of the present invention;

[0014]FIG. 6 is another fitness equipment unit that may be monitoredthrough the system of the present invention;

[0015]FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating service records created andmaintained by the system of the present invention and the updatingthereof;

[0016]FIG. 8 is a flow diagram pertaining to the sending of servicealert messages;

[0017]FIG. 8A is a flow diagram pertaining to accessing an interface forobtaining service information and reports through the present invention;

[0018]FIG. 9 is a menu screen of information and reports that areavailable through the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 10 is an example of a service alert;

[0020]FIG. 11 is a query screen for obtaining purchase historyinformation of fitness equipment units;

[0021]FIG. 12 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 11;

[0022]FIG. 13 is a query screen to obtain current service status offitness equipment units;

[0023]FIG. 14 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 13;

[0024]FIG. 15 is a query screen to obtain service and preventativemaintenance records for fitness equipment units;

[0025]FIG. 16 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 15;

[0026]FIG. 17 is a query screen for obtaining information pertaining tothe usage of fitness equipment units during a particular day or days;

[0027]FIGS. 18 and 19 are report screens corresponding to the queryscreen of FIG. 17;

[0028]FIG. 20 is a query screen to obtain information concerning thepopularity of fitness equipment units based on usage levels ofcustomers;

[0029]FIG. 21 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 20;

[0030]FIG. 22 is a query screen to obtain information concerningpreventative maintenance tracking of fitness equipment units;

[0031]FIG. 23 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 22;

[0032]FIG. 24 is a query screen pertaining to summaries of usage offitness equipment units by manufacturer, type of equipment, location,etc.;

[0033]FIG. 25 is a report screen corresponding to the query screen ofFIG. 24;

[0034]FIG. 26 is a query screen to obtain special report summaryinformation;

[0035]FIG. 27 is a screen for obtaining troubleshooting serviceinformation on fitness equipment units;

[0036]FIG. 28 is a report screen providing a service status of fitnessequipment unit groupings;

[0037]FIG. 29 is a report screen particular to an individual fitnessequipment unit shown in FIG. 28;

[0038]FIG. 30 is a report screen showing the service history of aparticular fitness equipment unit shown in FIG. 28;

[0039]FIG. 31 is a preventative maintenance report for a selectedgrouping of fitness equipment units;

[0040]FIG. 32 is a summary report for the current usage of fitnessequipment units of a desired grouping;

[0041]FIG. 33 is a report screen showing detailed usage information on aparticular fitness equipment unit from FIG. 32;

[0042]FIG. 34 provides a history of the usage of a particular fitnessequipment unit selected from FIG. 32;

[0043]FIG. 35 is a report screen showing trends of usage of fitnessequipment over time by selected criteria including equipment type,equipment at a particular location, etc.;

[0044]FIG. 36 is a menu screen of information and reports available tothe present invention;

[0045]FIG. 37 is a first screen of six utilized for selecting theparameters for an installation and warranty tracking report;

[0046]FIG. 38 is the second screen of the query;

[0047]FIG. 39 is the third screen of the query;

[0048]FIG. 40 is the fourth screen of the query;

[0049]FIG. 41 is the fifth screen of the query;

[0050]FIG. 42 is the sixth screen of the query;

[0051]FIG. 43 is a report screen providing installation and warrantyinformation; and

[0052]FIG. 44 is a service request screen.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0053] The present invention is a service tracking and alerting system18 for FEUs located at fitness facilities. These fitness facilities canbe commercial fitness clubs and gyms, exercise facilities at schools anduniversities, resorts, hotels, social clubs or companies, as well as allother locations where FEUs are used. The present invention has a numberof unique aspects that may be used in combination or alone. Therefore,while the text and depictions below describe and illustrate one systemhaving all aspects, it is to be kept in mind that portions of the system18 may be used separately.

[0054] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-4, in general, the system 18 ofthe present invention includes using one or more ICSs 20 to collect realtime service information from FEUs, for example, exercise cycle 22 andelliptical trainer 24, located at a particular fitness facility. EachICS stores this information in a temporary database 25. Periodically,the information is transmitted to an accumulated data storage unit ordata silo 26 via a communications/date transmissions network 29. Theaccumulated data storage unit may include a permanent database 27 havinga cache 28 of history service information. Upon receipt of serviceinformation from a ICS, the accumulated data storage unit incorporatesthe newly-received service information into the permanent database 27.The ICS then continues a new round of collecting real time serviceinformation from the FEUs. Although only one silo 26 is shown in thefigures, it is to be understood that multiple silos with theircorresponding ICSs can be utilized. The multi-silo arrangement may beaccessed and controlled using an enterprise level platform 32.

[0055] The system 18 of the present invention is further capable ofproviding service alert messages to one or more users if the state of aparticular FEU should warrant. The service alert message may begenerated by the ICS 20, the accumulated data storage unit 26, and/orthe enterprise level platform 32 depending on the criteria set forsending it. The service alert message is preferably sent via adata/communications network 29 which may be in the form of email,instant message, a voice mail message, text message via cellular phone,walkie-talkie, a pager, etc.

[0056] In more detail and referring to FIGS. 1-3, each ICS 20 isassociated with a fitness facility. The term “ICS” as used herein isdefined as a system 20 that includes a computer 30 having a CPU 31memory (RAM 32 and ROM 33) for collecting service information from anFEU via a wireless communication link, storing the collected serviceinformation in an electronic data memory unit 34, and providing accessto the collected service information. Such computers are now commonplaceand thus will not be described with any detail here. One example of anICS suitable for the present invention is the Envenergy Mediator. Thesystem's memory unit 34 can be in the form of a removable/non-removable,volatile/non-volatile storage media. Non-limiting examples include ahard disk drive, a solid state flash disk, a magnetic drive, a tapedrive, an optical disk drive, or other optical media. Removable storagemedia could include zip disks, flash cards, USB drives, magnetic ordigital tapes, and the like. In addition to storing the collectedstorage information/data, the memory unit 34 is also used to storeprogram modules, such as an operating system and application programs.Computer 30 runs programs capable of accomplishing the functions of theICS.

[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the ICS may runoperating system software 36, such as an object based operating system.Non-limiting examples of applicable operating systems include MicrosoftWindows™ or Linux™. For applications software, the ICS may run adatabase engine 38 to manage and search the data in the database of theICS. One such search engine is sold under the name Filemaker™. A plugin40 may be used in the database engine to allow the database records tobe accessed from an Internet browser. Web Companion™ is one such plugin.The applications software may also include software 42 to enable thedatabase software to read from and write to serial ports of the ICScomputer. One such software for this purpose is Trio™. Of course, otherdata ports of the ICS may be utilized for data input and output otherthan the serial port. The applications software may also include plugin44 to enable the database software to send emails. One such software isSMTPit™. If service alert messages are sent other than via email, thenother appropriate software can be utilized with the chosen databaseengine. In addition, the application software may include a component 46to schedule scripts. One such plugin is sold under the trademarkEvents™. Of course, some of the foregoing applications' functions may beintegrated together rather than constituting individual plugins for thedatabase management software 38.

[0058] Also, other application software may be utilized with the ICS 20,other than those described above, to perform those functions describedabove and other functions required of the ICS pursuant to the presentinvention. In this regard, the ICS may utilize software that is part ofthe enterprise level software. One such integrated software is EnvenergyMediator. This particular software has many of the functions of theforegoing plugins already integrated therein. Also, with this software,significant records are not maintained on the ICS; rather, the datacollected by the ICS is periodically transferred to the silo 26 andthereafter the data in the ICS is purged.

[0059] Alternatively, the ICS could be software applications that areloadable onto an existing personal computer or other computer andcapable of accomplishing these functions. In one embodiment, the ICS isa dedicated computer residing at the facility of the FEUs and includinga centralized memory 34 for storing collected service information.

[0060] By being “associated” with a fitness facility, the ICS may belocated at the facility itself, or it may be located off-site from thefacility. This may depend in part on the communication link used betweenthe FEUs and the ICS. Also, depending on the number of ICSs at aparticular facility, it may be necessary to utilize more than one ICS ata facility or club.

[0061] The ICS includes the ability to poll the FEUs at their facility,either sequentially or simultaneously, and to make such informationaccessible to one or more users. By way of background, current FEUs mayhave the ability to internally track various types of serviceinformation and data, for example, e.g., odometer reading, currentstatus, error history, etc. Such machines typically include a two-waycommunications port following the “Communication Protocols and Standardsfor Exercise Equipment”, or CSAFE port, for short. The CSAFE port is anindustry standard that is shaped somewhat similarly to a telephone jack.In one embodiment of the present invention, each FEU includes an radiofrequency transceiver connected to the CSAFE port and also to atransceiver 48 connected to a communications port of the ICS. An exampleof such a transceiver is the AeroComm RF transceiver model No. AC5124C,manufactured by AeroComm, Lenexa, Kans., USA. Alternatively, otherwireless protocols or even a power line transceiver may be used in lieuof the RF-based transceivers.

[0062] As shown primarily in FIGS. 5 and 6, the present invention may beutilized in conjunction with an FEU in the form of an exercise cycle 22having a frame 60, a seat 62 mounted on the upper end of a seat post 64.The frame also includes a forward post 66 for supporting handlebars 68and control/display panel 70 at the upper end of the post 64. Theexercise cycle 22 also includes pedals 72 mounted on the outer ends ofcranks 74 coupled to a crankshaft 76. A drive sheave 78 is splined,keyed, or otherwise coupled to the crankshaft 76 and trained to a drivesheave 79 splined or keyed to a drive shaft 80 by belt 82. A flywheel 84is also coupled to the drive shaft 80. Resistance to the rotation of theflywheel 84 may be applied by an eddy current brake or other type ofbrake, not shown. Sensors, such as sensor 86, as well as other sensors,may be utilized to measure numerous operational parameters of theexercise cycle 22, including the speed of rotation of the flywheel 84,the number of revolutions of the flywheel 84 or crank 74, the resistanceload imposed on the flywheel by the braking system, the length of timeof a current workout. As shown in FIG. 5, the exercise cycle 22 alsoincludes a radio frequency transceiver 88 connected to a CSAFE port 90.

[0063] The present invention may also be utilized in conjunction withother types of exercise equipment, for instance an elliptical trainer 24as illustrated in FIG. 6. This apparatus includes a floor mounted frame100 on which is mounted an elevatable front ramp 102 for supporting theforward ends of foot links 104 through rollers 106 axled to the frontend of the foot links. The rear end of the foot links 82 are coupled tothe outer ends of crank arms 108 sending outwardly from a crank shaft110 journaled in an upright support structure 112. A flywheel 114 iskeyed, splined or otherwise coupled to the crank shaft 92. Foot supportplates 116 are mounted on the upper side of the foot links 104 forsupporting the user's feet. A forward post structure 118 extendsupwardly and forwardly from the frame 100 to support at its upper end ahandlebar assembly 120 and a display/control panel 122.

[0064] Sensors 124 and 126 sense, among other operating parameters, theangle of the ramp 102, the rotational speed of the flywheel 114, theresistance being applied to a flywheel by a braking system, not shown,the number of revolutions of the flywheel, the time duration of theexercise session, as well as other parameters. As in the cycle 22, theelliptical trainer 24 also includes a radio frequency transceiver 128that is wired to or otherwise connected to a CSAFE port 130.

[0065] According to the present invention, in one embodiment, ICS 20 isused to sequentially poll each FEU regarding one of a multitude ofservice information data types. See FIG. 7. The ICS may include a mastertransceiver 48 (e.g., using an AeroComm radio) that sends a queryincluding an FEU identification number. Each FEU receives the query fromthe master transceiver, determines whether it is the FEU of interest,and responds with the answer if so, see FIG. 7. In another embodiment,software is used on an existing computer to simultaneously poll multipleFEUs at a fitness facility via radio frequency transmissions.

[0066] Each ICS has driver software to enable the ICS to communicatewith the radio frequency transceiver, as well as driver software toreceive the CSAFE format data from the FEU and convert such data to adesired format for storing in the ICS, and/or transmitting onto the silo26 and/or enterprise platform 32.

[0067] The database 34 has one service information record 140 for eachFEU for each time polled, see FIG. 3. Each such record 140 can includesuch information as:

[0068] a communication address used by the ICS to communicate with aspecific FEU;

[0069] a FEU identification number as assigned by FEU owner;

[0070] manufacturer Model name/number and serial number of the FEU;

[0071] text that uniquely describes the FEU;

[0072] current state of the FEU, including:

[0073] “ready”—when FEU is idle;

[0074] “on-line”—FEU is in use, typically by a user, but perhaps by aservice or maintenance person running the FEU's diagnostics;

[0075] “error”—FEU has detected a hardware error and thus has madeitself unavailable for use;

[0076] “no response” to last poll (a true or false value);

[0077] time since the last response;

[0078] software version;

[0079] current odometer reading;

[0080] current hour meter reading;

[0081] current speed (for example, pedaling speed, flywheel speed, ortreadmill belt speed);

[0082] sum for average speed;

[0083] maximum speed;

[0084] current incline of treadmill, elliptical cross-trainer or otherapplicable FEU;

[0085] sum for average incline;

[0086] maximum incline;

[0087] current resistance level;

[0088] sum for average resistance;

[0089] maximum resistance;

[0090] current user power;

[0091] sum for average user power;

[0092] maximum user power;

[0093] count for all of the foregoing averages;

[0094] current user heart rate;

[0095] current or last used course;

[0096] current or last user weight and age;

[0097] current or last user workout time, distance, and caloriesexpended; and

[0098] current or last user average and maximum heart rates, and timespent in the heart rate zone.

[0099] A new record 140 is created each time an FEU changes state.

[0100] The ICS 20 may maintain a history database 141 showing the usageof the FEUs being monitored, see FIG. 3. For each FEU, the historydatabase 141 contains one record 142, each of which may contain thefollowing information:

[0101] communications address;

[0102] FEU identification number as assigned by FEU owner;

[0103] manufacturer's Model number/name, and manufacturer's serialnumber for unit;

[0104] text that uniquely describes the FEU;

[0105] the event which changed the state of the FEU, i.e., “ready” to“off-line”, “off-line” to “ready”, “off-line” to “error”, etc.;

[0106] date and time;

[0107] odometer reading;

[0108] hour meter reading;

[0109] average and maximum speed, for example pedaling speed ortreadmill belt speed or flywheel rotational speed;

[0110] average and maximum incline (if applicable);

[0111] average and maximum resistance (if applicable);

[0112] average and maximum user power;

[0113] course;

[0114] weight and age of user;

[0115] workout time, distance traveled and calories expended;

[0116] average and maximum heart rate of exerciser, and time spent inthe heart rate zone; and

[0117] error code.

[0118] When the ICS 20 detects a state change from “ready” to “off-line”(for example, in use), the history database for the FEU is updated witha new record 142 containing the data entries listed above, see FIG. 7.Also, when a unit is in the “off-line” state, the ICS updates all thefields for the current record 140 for that particular FEU in the FEU'scurrent record database.

[0119] The ICS 20 may also include an errors database 143 containinginformation on the current and previous errors for all of the FEUs at aparticular location, see FIG. 3. The information in this dataset mayinclude the FEU's communications address, the FEU I.D. number, themanufacturer's name, model and serial number, the error code, the errorcode text, the date and time of record creation, the date and time ofthe most recent occurrence of this error code, the number of occurrencescounter, whether or not an error code was sent, and if so, the time anddate of sending, the time and date of the error code acknowledgement,whether or not service has been performed for this error code, and thetime and date of the service activity.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, each ICS 20 is in communication(e.g., TCP/IP protocol connections) with the accumulated data storageunit 26 and optionally with other club computers, for example, acomputer 144, see FIG. 1. The ICS 20 may be linked to the on-site clubcomputer 144 via direct connection or local area network rather thanthrough the network 29. In one embodiment, the accumulated data storageunit 26 is a Web-based server 146 connected to the Internet or othernetwork 29 and having a large data storage unit that may be in the formof a hard drive 144, a tape drive 150, an optical drive 152, a removablememory medium 154, a solid state flash disk, or other type of memorydevice. The server 146 also includes a computing system 156 to operatethe data storage unit. The computing system 156 includes a CPU 158, RAMmemory 160, ROM memory 162, and other standard components that areutilized in servers, such as server 146. The server may also include anassociated monitor 164, as well as input devices, such as a keyboard,pointing device, track balls, microphones, touch screens, joy sticks,and the like, not shown. Typically these input devices are connected tothe computing system 156 by a serial port, a parallel port, USB port,fire wire port, SCCSI port, or the like.

[0121] The server 146 is operated under operating system andapplications software, as would typically be the case. The operatingsystem software 166 may be an object-based software or other type ofsoftware. As with the case of ICS 20, the server 146 may operate varioustypes of application software, including a database engine 168 toorganize and control the database 27 and also to obtain information fromand organize information in the database when so instructed by the user,as discussed more fully below. To this end, the server 146 may alsoinclude an Internet browser access software 170, software to read fromand write to the computer 172, software 174 to send e-mails or othertypes of communications from the server, and software 176 to schedulescripts. As with the ICSs, the software of the server 146 may be part ofthe overall enterprise level software, and thus integrated with theenterprise platform.

[0122] The present invention contemplates that system 18 would consistof a number of silos 26 with corresponding ICSs 20. These multiple silosystems are managed by the enterprise level platform 32, FIG. 1. Thisplatform may communicate with the silos 26 as well as with the ICSs 20and system users via network 29, which may be a wide area network, i.e.,the Internet, a local area network, dial-up system, etc. The enterpriseplatform 32 may include its own hardware and software. One example ofenterprise level software may include Envenergy Mediator. Numerous typesof server hardware could be used for the enterprise platform.

[0123] As noted above, each ICS 20 periodically sends the contents ofits temporary database 25 to the accumulated data storage unit 26 forpermanent storage in permanent database 27. The connection between theICS and the accumulated data storage unit 26 is via the network 29 whichmay be “a connection via the Internet”, which could be wireless (i.e.802.11), or by network cable, dial-up modem, satellite, etc. This allowsthe ICS 20 to reuse its memory for storing more new real time serviceinformation from FEUs. To this end, the server 146 includes acommunications unit 180 as well as applicable hardware and software, toenable the server to communicate over the network 29 with the ICSs, alsowith users, as discussed more fully below.

[0124] In addition, the service information stored in the accumulateddata storage unit 26 has a multitude of uses, many of which aredescribed in detail below. The transfer of real time service informationto the accumulated data storage 26 unit can be done on predefined timebasis, or when a certain criteria is met (such as the ICS memory isclose to being full), or according to whatever other basis is desired.

[0125] The service information collected by the ICS 20 and theaccumulated data storage unit 26 preferably includes service informationfrom all types of FEUs of a particular club or facility, including thoseFEUs from different manufacturers. As discussed below, the presentinvention can provide the club owner with a great amount of usefulinformation. Further, it is possible to form a single accumulated datastorage unit that is industry wide. Thus, ICSs from different fitnessclubs could transmit service information to a single accumulated datastorage unit. All manufacturers could have access to the accumulateddata storage unit and would be required to use a unique access method inorder to gain access to data on the FEUs that they manufactured.

[0126] The ICS 20 and accumulated data storage unit 26 each store someinformation that is the same, and may also store information that isunique to one or the other. For example, the ICS system memory 34 mayalso store associated notes regarding a particular event, e.g., patroncomments, the manager on duty at the time of an event, use counters toalert management of the need for more machines, as well as otherspecific information 182, etc. By way of another example, theaccumulated data storage database 27 may also store facility locations,manager phone numbers, time in existence, and other specific information184, etc.

[0127] In one embodiment of the present invention, the permanentdatabase 27 contain, for each FEU, one record 186 per event. Types ofinformation may include those listed above concerning the informationstored in the harvesting memory 34, for example: FEU identificationnumber, state, date and time, odometer value, hour meter value, speeds,incline, resistance, power use, course, workout performance, error code,etc.

[0128] In accordance with further aspects of this invention andreferring to FIG. 8, the system is further capable of providing aservice alert message to one or more users if the state of a particularFEU should warrant. Typical FEU states are:

[0129] “ready”—this means that the FEU is idle;

[0130] “off-line”—this means that the FEU is in use, either by a user orbeing serviced by service or maintenance personnel;

[0131] “idle”;

[0132] “active”;

[0133] “no response”—meaning the FEU does not respond to polling by theICS. The lack of a response by the FEU may be due to one of threepossibilities:

[0134] the FEU is self-powered and is currently not being used;

[0135] the FEU (and its wireless transmitter) has been moved out ofrange of the ICS's radio;

[0136] the communication channel between the ICS and FEU is disabled,possibly intermittently;

[0137] “error”—this means that the FEU has detected a hardware error andthus has made itself unavailable for use.

[0138] The ICS 20 captures the service information and makes adetermination as to whether a service alert message is needed, see FIG.8. The criteria used may be permanently predefined, or may be modifiableaccording to the needs of the facility. For example, one facility maydecide that service information pertaining to power-off do not warrant aservice alert message.

[0139] The service alert message may be generated by the ICS 20, by theaccumulated data storage unit 26, and/or by the enterprise platform 32,depending on the criteria set for sending the message, see FIG. 8. Forexample, if an FEU experiences a burned out motor, the ICS may send: (1)a service alert message to the facility manager apprising him or her ofthe situation, (2) a service alert message to a repair facilityrequesting a new motor, and (3) a service alert message to theaccumulated data storage unit 26 which then determines if a trend existsand, if so, sends a service alert message to the manufacturer regardinga potential design defect in their motors and another service alertmessage to the repair facility with history service data.

[0140] As an alternative to the foregoing procedure, the ICS 20 may sendan error code to the enterprise platform, and the service alert is thengenerated by the enterprise platform based on the rules and criteriathat have been established. In this alternative, the data storage unit26 also would not itself send service alerts or messages tomanufacturers or others; rather, such alerts and messages would also besent by the enterprise platform.

[0141] In one embodiment, a service alert message is generated only foran error status. The message may include a complete solution to theerror including identification of which unit has failed, error type,other relevant data from the equipment (e.g., odometer reading), and(low priority) technical support information with step-by-stepinstruction on how to correct and suggested parts needed. In addition,service alert messages may be generated and sent to club managers whenpreventive maintenance is needed.

[0142] As will be appreciated by a reading of the above, there arenumerous configurations possible regarding service alert messages.Particularly desirable aspects include the use of a wirelesscommunication of the service alert message (e.g., email, SMTP/IP, voicemail, pager, text message, satellite communication, cellular connection,etc.), the ability to send the alert message to one or more recipients,and the ability for the message to be sent automatically and inelectronic form. FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of an exampleservice alert message.

[0143] In accordance with yet other aspects of this invention andinitially referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the system 18 further includes areporting interface 190 accessed via the enterprise platform 32. Theinterface 190 allows a user to view both real time and history serviceinformation of FEUs by accessing the accumulated data storage unit 26and/or one or more ICSs 20. In reporting interface aspect, the abilityto query multiple aspects simultaneously and the ability to manage theinformation is accomplished at different levels.

[0144] In one embodiment, log-on access to the interface 190 is providedby a Web-based (preferably, access-controlled) system linking the uservia the enterprise platform to an accumulated data storage unit 26. Realtime data may be obtained from a ICS 20 through network 29 (e.g.,Internet, intranet), accessed by direct dial-up account, cellular phoneline, cable modem, satellite modem, etc. Alternatively, in systemshaving ICSs that continuously send their real time data to theaccumulated data storage unit 26, the secondary link to the ICS(s) maybe unnecessary.

[0145] In one embodiment, the user can request and review serviceinformation data only and cannot make any changes, see FIG. 8A. Inanother embodiment, one or more users with a higher access level havethe ability to modify the data presented. For example, a repair shop mayhave the authority to update the status of a particular problem from“In-Work” to “Completed”. Similarly, a manufacturer may have theauthority to designate a particular problem as having an associatedrecall issue. A multitude of configurations are possible.

[0146] In general, the user obtains information from the reportinginterface by selecting one of a number of different topics as describedbelow with respect to FIG. 19. In one embodiment, multiple buckets ortypes of information are selectably displayed on a first menu screen202. A menu system leads the user through various levels of inquiry,with the final step preferably being the selection of a report or searchbutton. In general, the amount and type of service information availablewill depend on the amount and type of service information coming from aparticular FEU. In addition, the user can request service informationfor a particular location, a particular region, a particular club, aparticular customer, a particular type of machine, etc.

[0147] The interface includes multiple pages of information, withnumerous opportunities for the user to select the desired informationand put it in a desired format. FIGS. 9-35 illustrate one embodiment ofsuch an interface. Other arrangements are possible. The results of theinformation request can be displayed on the user's computer screen, onthe user's PDA or other device. In one embodiment, the listing of FEUcurrent status is done in a color-coded manner, with a red light, greenlight, etc., shown beside each entry, see, for example, FIGS. 12, 14,23, 28, 31 and 32 and the associated discussion below. The color mayindicate the status of a particular service alert associated with aparticular FEU. The graphic reports and charts may be similarly colorcoded as well. As will be appreciated, the service information may bepresented in various ways, depending on the application at hand.

[0148] Describing the reporting interface 190 in more detail, FIG. 9illustrates one exemplary embodiment of the first menu screen 202 of thereporting interface 190 in the menu screen 200. The followinginformational categories may be selected: Service Alerts 204, PurchaseHistory 206, Real-Time Status 208, Service History 210, Peak Times 212,Product Popularity Usage 214, Preventative Maintenance Tracking 216,Unit Work History Summaries 218, Special Reports 220, Trouble ShootingService Issues 222, Automatic Parts Inventory 224. Any of the foregoinginformational categories can be selected by the user by selecting the“View Report” button or box 226 adjacent each of the foregoingcategories.

[0149] If the Service Alert category 204 is selected, as discussedabove, the present invention generates a service alert message 229 toapplicable recipients when an FEU is in need of service. The recipientsmay include the club/facility manager or other responsible personnel192, a service provider or technician 194, customer support personnel ofthe FEU's manufacturer 196, as well as the system administrator 198.FIG. 10 is an example of a service notice that would be generated by thepresent invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the notice includes variousinformation including the facility 230, at which the FEU is located, aswell as main recipients 236 (e.g., service provider 194) of the servicealert 232, as well as cc recipients 234 (e.g., the club manager 194 andFEU manufacturer 196). The service report also indicates the time anddate 236 that the report was received by the recipient(s) as well as thesubject 238 of the service alert. Thereafter, the service alertreporting information 239 is set forth, including the location of theFEU in question, the date in which the “error code” occurred for theFEU, the time in which the error code occurred, the manufacturer andModel number of the FEU in question, the serial number of the FEU inquestion, the error code applicable to the FEU, and an errordescription. In the example of the service alert message 229 shown inFIG. 10, the described error is that the lift is not operating. Theservice alert also advises the recipient that the service history of theFEU in question, as well as preventative maintenance record and otherinformation, is available. In the example shown in FIG. 10, thefictitious name of the entity operating the service alert system 18 ofthe present invention has been named “Service Tracker.” Also, theService Alert message 229 can provide other or additional information tosome or all of the recipients. Examples include recommended parts neededor procedures to follow to repair the FEU or otherwise perform therequired service on the FEU.

[0150] As described above, a service alert may be automaticallygenerated by a change in state of the FEU when a service matter arises.As also noted above, a service alert can be sent via a network 29 usingnumerous different types of communication access modes. The servicealerts of the present invention can decrease the down time of the FEU byfacilitating quick, unobtrusive service by relaying pertinentinformation to the service provider before he/she arrives at the site ofthe FEU. This can not only result in cost savings to the club/facilityowner/operator, but can also decrease the negative impression forcustomers/members of the club/facility.

[0151] A second inquiry that a user can select from the menu screen 202of the reporting interface 190 is the Purchase History category 206which leads one to a purchase history query interface screen 240. Thisscreen may be utilized to create reports showing the installation date,usage, and service history of FEUs. This information is of significantuse to club/facility owners and operators, for instance when deciding toreplace units. The query can select multiple parameters, including themanufacturer 242 of the FEUs, and the type 244 of FEU, whethertreadmill, exercise cycle, climber, elliptical machine, or other type.The query can also be based on a particular facility location or aregion of the country 246. Further selectable parameters include thehour usage 248 of the FEU or the mileage 250 on the FEU's odometer. Theinstallation date 252 of the FEU is also a selectable parameter as wellas the warranty expiration date 254 of the FEU or portion or componentsof the FEU. At the purchase history interface screen 240, it is alsopossible to select primary and secondary sort criteria (not shown), forinstance by manufacturer, product type, installation dates, etc., at theprimary sort submenu 256.

[0152] An example of a resulting report screen 258 based on theparameters selected in the query screen 240 is shown in FIG. 12. In thepurchase history report 258, the information is provided in columnarform, although other formats may be selected. The columns in the report258 include the date of installation of the FEU 260, the warrantyexpiration date of the FEU 262, the name of the manufacturer of the FEU264, the Model and equipment type of the FEU 266, the location of theFEU 268, the hour meter reading of the FEU 270, the distance odometerreading of the FEU 272, and a view service report option icon 274. Theprimary sort category used in the report 258 was the date ofinstallation. Of course, if another primary sort criteria is selected,the information shown in FIG. 12 would be arranged differently. Also, inreport 258 is a first column 276 consisting of colored balls or othericons for each FEU, which allows for the color-coding of the datapresented in report 258. For example, a green, yellow, red, or othercolor code may be used to indicate the remaining useful life of the FEUor other criteria.

[0153] From column 274 of report 258, the user can, for a specific FEU,obtain a service history report, which is described below relative toFIGS. 15 and 16.

[0154] A third category of information shown in FIG. 9 that can beselected by the user is the Real-Time Status 208 of the FEU. Selectionof this category leads the user to a query screen 300, shown in FIG. 13,consisting of criteria that may be selected relative to the Real-TimeStatus report being requested which pertains to providing anunderstanding of the current service and usage status of any FEU at anylocation. As shown in FIG. 13, the report criteria that may be selectedincludes a particular club location or region of the country 302, themanufacturer of the FEU 304, and the product category of the FEU 306. Inaddition, the report can be sorted by at least primary and secondarycriteria 308 and 310. Such criteria may include, for example, themanufacturer of the FEU, the category of the FEU, the installation dateof the FEU, etc. Once the criteria for the query is selected, a report312 is generated, as shown in FIG. 14.

[0155] The information in FIG. 14 is arranged in columnar form with oneline per FEU. As would be expected, the arrangement of such informationis based on primary and secondary sort criteria selected in screen 300.The columns of report 312 may include the following information: themanufacturer 314, the FEU Model 316, the FEU product category 318, themanufacturer's serial number of the FEU 320, the error status of the FEU322, and the date that a service alert was sent 324. The last column ofreport 312 shows an icon 325 to allow the user to select the servicehistory for a particular FEU. Also, in the first column 328 acolor-coded icon 329 may be utilized to provide a color representationof the current status of the FEU. For example, colors may be used torepresent whether or not an error status is currently in effect. Also, aprint icon 236 is provided to allow the recipient to print the report.As would be expected, each of the query and report screens used with theinvention can have a print icon for convenient printing of the screenbeing accessed.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 9, in the menu screen 202, it is possible toselect the Unit Service History option 210 of an FEU which leads theuser to screen 340, shown in FIG. 15. The screen 340 contains criteriafor the desired report. Of course, other criteria could be used in thisquery screen as well as the other query screens described herein. Inscreen 340, the user enters the serial number of the FEU 342 and thetime period of the desired report. When these selections are made, thereport can be generated in the format shown in screen 346, FIG. 16. Ifthe serial number of the FEU is unknown, means can be provided to obtainthat information, such as by accessing the Real Time Status report queryscreen 300 via the link button/box 345 in screen 340. The servicehistory of the selected unit is displayed in screen 346, FIG. 16.

[0157] In the upper portion of the report screen 346, shown in FIG. 16,information concerning the selected FEU is set forth, including thetotal downtime of the unit 347, manufacturer 348, the product category349, Model or type of product 350 of the FEU, the serial number 352, thedate 354 that the FEU was installed, the location of the FEU 356, theowner's I.D. number 358 of the FEU, the name of the person that servicesthe FEU 358, and the service account number 359. The service record ofthe FEU is set forth in the lower part of the screen 346 in columnarform, with the columns including the date 360 and the time of the date362 that the service record was generated, the applicable error code364, the service recommendation 366, the description of theerror/service performed 368, the hour meter reading 370, the odometerreading 372, whether a service alert was sent 374, the preventativemaintenance (“PM”) status 375, when the receipt of the service error wasacknowledged 376, and by whom 377. The screen 346 also includes a PMrecommendation key 378 corresponding to the recommendations set forth incolumn 366.

[0158] The service history report shown in screen 346 at the upperportion thereof identifies the query selections from FIG. 15, includingthe location 380, the date range 381, the manufacturer serial number382, the unit ID number 383. In addition, the total hours 285 and thetotal odometer reading 386 are provided.

[0159] Further, in screen 346, warranty expiration dates are providedfor not only different portions of the FEU, but also for parts 387 andlabor 388. The portions of the FEU for which expiration dates are setforth include the frame 390, the display unit 391, the motor 392, andthe motor fan 393. As apparent, a significant amount of information isprovided in screen 346 concerning the service history of the particularunit FEU selected. Of course, the screen 346 need not provide all of theforegoing information if not required or desired by the user. Also, someof the foregoing information could be provided in other screens insteadof the unit service history screen. This is true of all of the reportscreens illustrated and discussed herein.

[0160] It will be appreciated that the service history informationenables the user to determine what maintenance has been performed in andout of warranty, and the cost of the maintenance that has been completedin and out of warranty. Also, this information helps the user makepurchasing decisions in terms of replacing or buying new FEUs.

[0161] From the user interface menu screen 202, the user can also selectthe Peak Times option 212 leading to query screen 400 which providesinformation concerning usage of FEUs during the hours of a day. Theparameters that can be selected for this inquiry, as shown in screen400, include, for example, the sites or locations of the FEUs 402,whether at all locations, in different regions of the country, or atspecific locations. It is possible to select more than one of theselocations for this particular inquiry or more than one of the otherparameters available in this or other query screens described herein.Such other parameters include the time period 404 of the inquiry, thedays of the week 406 of the inquiry, so that the report can be selectedfor a particular day of the week or days of the week. The selectableparameters also include product categories 408, for example, treadmills,cycles, climbers, ellipticals, or all of the above, as well asmanufacturers of the FEUs 410 and particular models 412 from suchmanufacturers.

[0162] The resulting report is provided in tabular and graphical format,for example, in report screen 413, as shown in FIG. 19. The tabularinformation includes the locations selected for the inquiry 414 and thetotal pieces of equipment types 416 for a selected site. Below thetabular information, a line or other type of graph 418 is provided thatshows the usage during the hours of the day on a horizontal axis and theunits in use in the vertical axis. From the upper portion of reportscreen 413 it is possible to select a graph for each of the particularlocations shown in column 414. In this regard, graph 426, shown in FIG.19, pertains to one particular site location 422 (Club X-303) with thetotal number of FEUs (treadmills) 424 located thereat. The usage ofthese FEUs is graphed over the hours of the day as shown in Graph 426.Although the report depicted in FIG. 19 pertains to treadmills at threespecific club facility locations, many other, different parameters couldhave been selected. Moreover, different product groups could have beenselected, for instance, one specific treadmill (FEU), all treadmills ofa specific model, all treadmills from a particular manufacturer, alltreadmills from all manufacturers, all cardio equipment at a particularsite or group of sites, etc. This information allows the user todetermine when during a day or week that a specific product or group ofproducts are being used, as well as how often members/users are requiredto wait to use a specific product group. As apparent, this informationis useful in making FEU purchase decisions.

[0163] From the interface menu screen 202, another selection is ProductPopularity or Usage 214, which analyzes the percent of available hoursthat a selected product group has been used. As discussed above withrespect to the Peak Time analysis, from the Product Popularity or Usageanalysis, product groups can be defined as one or more products, forexample one specific FEU, all FEUs of a particular model, all FEUs in aparticular product category, for instance treadmills, all FEUs in aproduct category from a particular manufacturer, an FEU of a productcategory from all manufacturers, all cardio FEUs at a particular site orgroup of sites, etc. As shown in query screen 440 of FIG. 20, theselectable parameters for this analysis can include FEU manufacturers442, product categories 444, FEU Models 446, the locations or regions inwhich the FEUs are located 448, the day(s) of the week for the analysis450, and the duration of the analysis 452. The result of the analysis isset forth in FIG. 21 in both tabular and graphical format.

[0164] As illustrated in the upper screen 454, the analysis illustratedin FIG. 21 pertains to usage of treadmills at a particular location“Club X-302” during a specific time period. In the upper portion 454 ofFIG. 21 the treadmills are grouped by manufacturer 456 and thensubgrouped by Model 458. The information provided also includes thetotal equipment units 460, the total hours of usage 462, the totalavailable hours 464, and the percentage of total hours used 466. Also, abar graph illustrates the average number of hours that a particularproduct group was used per day.

[0165] The lower portion 470 of FIG. 21 provides information on aspecific FEU basis. The information that is provided in tabular formincludes the manufacturer 472, the model 474, the hour meter reading476, the odometer reading 478, the serial number of the FEU 480, and theproduct description 482. A bar graph 484 graphically illustrates themiles accrued for a particular FEU at a particular location through aspecified time period. The graph can be of another parameter of thespecific FEU, for example, hour meter reading.

[0166] Of course, the tabular and graphical information provided in FIG.21 would depend on the product groups selected for analysis. Forexample, the present analysis could be carried out on the basis ofproduct categories for all manufacturers at the location(s) selected orby product category for each different manufacturer at the location(s)selected. Also, it can be appreciated that the foregoing informationprovided would be important in making purchasing decisions by theclub/facility owner/manager. This information would also be valuable toequipment makers in showing how their equipment is viewed by actualusers vis-à-vis comparable equipment by the manufacturers.

[0167] Preventative Maintenance (PM) tracking 216 is another possibleselection from the interface menu 202 shown in FIG. 9. When this optionis selected, the user is led to query screen 490 shown in FIG. 22. As inmany of the other reports, the PM tracking report can be organized byproduct groups. To this end, the query screen criteria includes the siteof geographic region for the report 492, the product category 494, aprimary sort option 496, for example, product category, manufacturer,installation date of the FEU, as well as a secondary sort criteria 498.A further selectable criteria is whether the preventative maintenancesuggestion has been signed off by the responsible personnel 500.

[0168] The report results are tabulated in screen 501, shown in FIG. 23,in matrix format. The columns of information, include the manufacturer502, the equipment type 503, the Model number/designation 504, the ownerI.D. number or designation 505, the serial number of the FEU 506, theinstallation date 507 of the FEU, the hour meter reading 508, themileage or stride number reading 509, the recommended PM to be carriedout 510, and an icon 511 to view the service report for the FEU. Alsoprovided is a first column of colored indicia 512, with the colorsselected to indicate the urgency of the preventative maintenance orwhether or not the preventative maintenance has been carried out. Screen501 also includes a key 524 for the PM column 510.

[0169] It will be appreciated that the information provided in FIG. 23can make the carrying out of preventative maintenance operations moreefficient by saving time and costs while improving the accuracy andcompliance of the preventative maintenance. This information alsoprovides a fast and efficient manner of collecting hour meter andodometer readings on FEUs.

[0170] From the menu screen 202 of the report interface, the UnitWorkout History 218 may be selected by the user. These summaries providehow products or product groups are utilized in the clubs and gyms, forexample the workout courses used, lengths of the workouts, the speedsand resistance levels that are being used. This information can behelpful to the club/facility owner/manager as well as manufacturers todetermine how better to offer training, instruction, and appropriateequipment to members/customers. When the Unit Workout History option 218is selected, the user is led to a query screen 513, shown in FIG. 24,which may be similar to the query screen in many of the otherreports/options described herein. The information sought can becategorized by product group. To this end, screen 513 may include thefollowing selectable criteria: manufacturers of the FEUs 514, productcategory 515, club location or region 516, query dates 518, and/orprimary sort options 520. Of course, a secondary sort option could alsobe provided, not shown.

[0171] The information for the Unit Workout History report may beprovided in graphical and/or tabular format, shown in FIG. 25, whichillustrates information pertaining to usage of a particular treadmill atClub X-101. The graphical information includes a first bar graph 522showing the number of workouts of particular durations. As shown in thegraph, most of the workouts are from 11 to 20 minutes. A second bargraph 524 shows which of the treadmill workout courses were selectedmost often. As shown in the graph, the manual course was most popular.The tabular information 526 provides specific information on the usageof a particular FEU. In this regard, the FEU is identified in box 525 interms of the manufacturer, the model designation, the manufacturer'sserial number, the S/W and the communications address. The usageinformation tabulated includes the location 528 and the Model type ofthe FEU 530, the date of the workout 532, the time that the workoutstarted 534, the course selected for the workout 536, the caloriesexpended by the exerciser 538, the distance covered during the workout540, the maximum speed (in miles per hour) attained during the workout542, the maximum incline 544 of the treadmill during the workout, andthe length of the workout 546. As will be appreciated, this providesvery valuable, detailed information to owners and managers of clubs andfacilities, as well as to equipment manufacturers.

[0172] A further selection available from the menu screen 202 of thereport interface of FIG. 9 is a Special Reports feature 220. When thisselection is made, screen 560 appears as shown in FIG. 26. Such reportsare for requests not fulfilled by existing report formats and if theuser would prefer that Service Tracker™, the fictitious administrator ofSystem 18, create the report for the user. The user provides ServiceTracker™ with a particular issue or question to be answered, an analysisto be formed, data to be gathered, etc. Thereafter, Service Tracker™will carry out the request by the user and provide the report viatabular and/or graphical output. Example 1, designated as 562, of aparticular type of report may be an overall analysis of peak time usageof FEUs to recommend a better assortment of products to the user.Another possibility would be Example 2, designated as 564 consisting ofan End of Fiscal Year Report showing usage (wear) on all productspurchased in a particular year. Another possibility would be Example 3,designated as 566, requesting an analysis to support a betterdistribution of current products and new products between or amongspecific locations. As will be appreciated, a very wide variety ofspecial reports are possible through the Special Reports request.

[0173] Trouble Shooting Service Issues 222 comprise a further inquirythat can be made through the menu screen 202 of the report interface190. This selection helps a user obtain more information concerning aservice alert. When a service alert is received, the user can select theModel type and the error code, and thereby receive a list of commontrouble shooting ideas. The user can also see the parts required torepair the FEU so as to be able to order the parts more easily. To thisend, the user is provided with views of the product and is giveninstructions from the manufacturer's user manual. For example, as shownin FIG. 27, a depiction of the FEU can be provided to the user. From thedepiction, the user can choose a specific area of the FEU (for example,those areas that are circled in FIG. 27) to obtain not only moreinformation, but also a diagram of the parts composing that portion ofthe FEU together with the applicable part numbers.

[0174] A further available selection from the menu screen 202 is theAutomatic Parts Inventory 224. In this option, when an error codeindicates that replacement of a part is necessary, Service Tracker™tells the manufacturer that a particular part is required. Themanufacturer's internal system can automatically send or offer to sendthe part to the location predesignated by the customer, whether to awarehouse, a third party service provider warehouse, club location, etc.As will be apparent, this particular option can speed the repair of theaffected FEU.

[0175] The user interface screen 202 also allows the user to obtainspecific current status and maintenance reports for all FEUs owned bythe user through the service menu 570, as shown in FIG. 9. The servicemenu 570 has various selections, including an All Unit Service Status572, a Specific Unit Service Status 574, and a Current MaintenanceReport selection 576.

[0176] When the All Units Service Status 572 is selected, a report isdisplayed for the service status of all units owned by the user, shownin screen 577 of FIG. 28. The information may be arranged in matrixformat with the information provided in columns, including the Modeldesignation of the FEU 578, the type of FEU 580, the FEU identificationnumber as assigned by the owner 582, the current service status of theFEU 584, the current error status 586, whether or not an error alert hasbeen sent 588, and the date and time of the last reply received from theFEU 590. Also, in a first column 592, color coded icons can be providedfor a desired parameter to be displayed. For example, perhaps the colorred can be displayed if the current error is shown in column 586,perhaps green if the current status of the unit is active, and yellow ifthe current status of the unit is idle, and thus, ready for use.

[0177] Further information is provided in the screen 596 for aparticular unit, see FIG. 29. Information on a particular unit can beobtained by simply selecting one of the product I.D. numbers 582 shownin FIG. 28. The further information as shown in screen 596 includes theModel designation of the FEU 598, the type of FEU 600, the owner I.D.number or designation of the FEU 602, the S/W version 604 themanufacturer's serial number 606, the communication address 608, thelast service report/alert date and time 610, the odometer reading 612,the hour meter reading 614, and the current error code 616. From screen596, it is possible to obtain the service history of the FEU throughoutits entire life or during a particular time period, by selecting a startdate 618 and an ending date 620 and then selecting the “View History”box 621. Also, it is possible for the user to enter a description of aproblem that is occurring with an FEU in textbox 622.

[0178] The service history record of the FEU may be provided, as shownin screen 624, FIG. 30. In the first or upper portion of the ServiceHistory record, identification information can be provided, includingthe Model designation 626, the manufacturer's serial number 628, the S/W630, the identification number of the FEU as provided by the owner 632,and the communications address for the FEU 634. This information shouldbe the same as in screen 596. Screen 624 also sets forth in tabularformat the service history of the selected FEU, including the date ofservice 636, the time 638 of service on the particular date, the stateof the unit at that time 640, the hour meter reading 642, the odometerreading 644, the then current error codes 646, and whether or not aservice alert was sent 648. As apparent, the foregoing provides aconvenient way for the club/facility owner/manager to ascertain thecurrent service status of all units owned as well as the service historyof any particular FEU.

[0179] Through selection of the Unit Status Search 574 in menu 570, theforegoing information can be obtained for a particular FEU owned by theuser, by navigating through applicable selection options in a standardmanner.

[0180] From menu 570, the user can also obtain a current preventativemaintenance report for any or all of the user's units at a particularlocation or at all locations and as of a particular date. Screen 660sets forth a preventative maintenance report for all of the user's FEUsin tabular form, see FIG. 31. The information provided in each columnincludes the Model designation 662, the type of FEU 664, theidentification number 666, the manufacturer's serial number 668, theinstallation date of the FEU 670, the hour meter reading 672, themiles/strides odometer reading 674, the maintenance status 676, and thedate of the maintenance status 678. Screen 660 also includes thelocation of the FEU 680 as well as the date of the report 682. As willbe appreciated, the foregoing provides a convenient manner in which theuser can ascertain the preventative maintenance status of each of itsFEUs. Moreover, the user can select a particular FEU to obtain itspreventative maintenance history in much the same way that the servicestatus history for a particular unit was described above and illustratedin FIGS. 29 and 30.

[0181] The interface screen 202 in FIG. 9 also includes a menu 700 thatallows a user to conveniently access usage information pertaining to itsFEUs. Available options include Current Usage information 702, UsageTrend information 704, usage information, Usage Search, for a specificFEU 706.

[0182] If the Current Usage option 702 is selected, the informationabout the current usage of the user's FEUs is provided in tabularformat, for example see screen 712, shown in FIG. 32. The columns ofinformation provided include the manufacturer's Model designation of theFEU 714, the type of FEU 716, the identification number of the FEU 718,the current usage status of the FEU 720, the current speed of the FEU722, the current incline of the FEU 724, the current resistance level ofthe FEU 726, and the current course being utilized 728. Also, as a firstcolumn 730, a color designation can be provided to perhaps designate theusage status of the FEU with different colors for various status states.

[0183] It is possible to obtain the usage history of a particular FEU byselecting that particular FEU in FIG. 32, which leads the user to screen734, as shown in FIG. 33. This selection screen is similar to screen 596shown in FIG. 29. In this regard, screen 738 includes much of the sameinformation for a particular unit as set forth in screen 712, includingModel number 736, equipment type 738, the manufacturer's serial number740, the FEU identification number 742, the S/W version 744, the hourmeter reading 746, the odometer reading 748, the current status 750, thecurrent error code 752, if any, the current speed of the unit 754, thecurrent incline 756, and the current resistance level 758. Also, inscreen 734, the user can select a particular time period for the usagehistory desired by entering dates in the start date box 770 and the enddate box 772 and then selecting the “View History” box. If no dates areentered, the entire usage history is provided. Also, screen 734 includesa description box 774 wherein the user can enter a description about theFEU in question.

[0184] Completion of query screen 734 results in the generation of areport screen 780 which provides a usage history of the FEU for the timeperiod selected. Identification information for the FEU is set forth atthe top of screen 780, including the manufacturer's Model designation782, the manufacturer's serial number of the FEU 784, the S/W 786, andthe communications address for the FEU 788. The historical informationon the usage of the FEU includes the time 790 and the date 792 that eachworkout began as well as the course chosen for the workout 794, thenumber of calories expended during the workout 796, the workout distancein the number of strides or mileage covered 798, and the duration of theworkout 800. As will be apparent, this information can be valuable intelling the user how a particular FEU is being utilized by customers.

[0185] If the Usage Trends option 704 is selected in menu 700, graphicalrepresentations of equipment usage for a desired time period ispresented for a desired product group, for example as shown in screen900, see FIG. 35. This screen shows three separate graphs, including afirst graph 902 showing average usage hours per day by manufacturer'sModel designation during the selected time period. The second graph 904shows the average usage hours per day by type of FEU, for exampletreadmills and elliptical cross-trainers. Graph 906 shows selectedequipment usage by time of day in terms of a percentage of the equipmentbeing utilized in a club or gym during the selected date duration. Thisinformation can be very useful in assisting the user in making purchasedecisions and other decisions pertaining to its FEUs.

[0186] Option 706 in menu 700 allows the user to obtain usageinformation for a particular FEU. This option can lead the user throughmenus similar to those described above to select a desired FEU, and thenthe information for that FEU is displayed in a manner identical or verysimilar to that shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, above.

[0187] As noted above, other interface systems, formats, and layouts canbe utilized in the present invention in place of interface 190. FIGS.36-43 illustrate portions of an alternative interface system utilizingan initial menu screen 1000 shown in FIG. 36. This menu screen hasvarious report selections, including Usage Summary 1002, Usage Summaryby Model 1004, Unit Workout History 1006, Unit Service History 1008,Installation and Warranty Tracking 1010. Also, in screen 1000 it ispossible to request Unit Service Alerts 1012, Network Service Alerts1014, and it is possible to request Service for a particular FEU byselection 1016. The foregoing selections available in screen 1000 aresimilar to corresponding screens illustrated and described above,perhaps with the exception of the installation and warranty trackingoption 1010, which option will now be described in more detail.

[0188] Selecting the Installation and Warranty Tracking option 1010 inFIG. 36 leads to a series of query screens shown in FIGS. 37-42 toprovide the user with a step-by-step intuitive query process. FIG. 37shows an initial screen 1020 which is used to select a location(s) to bequeried. The location(s) could be all of the locations of a particularcompany or club those locations in a particular county, a region of acounty, a state, a county of the state, a city, a section of a city,down to an individual location or even a floor, section, or area of aparticular location. Access to specific locations will depend onauthorization, for example, employees of Company A will not likely begiven access to information pertaining to Company B, though informationto all companies would be available to the enterprise administrator.

[0189] Once a location is chosen, the user is led to the next screen,screen 1022, shown in FIG. 38. In this screen, the user selects the typeor type(s) of equipment with respect to which the query is being made,as shown in menu 1024. With each progressive screen, the informationselected from prior screens is also provided in the right hand portionof the screen. For example, in screen 1022, the location selected fromscreen 1020 is provided at 1026. After selecting the product category,the user is led to screen 1030, FIG. 39, wherein the user can select aparticular model or models of the product type selected in screen 1022.The user can select all models if desired from menu 1032. Again, thatcriteria selected in prior screens is set forth in screen 1030, as shownin location 1034.

[0190] Next, the user is directed to screen 1040 shown in FIG. 40. Inthis screen, the user selects from menu 1042 the type or types ofwarranty being ascertained, for example a warranty on the frame, theunit display, the motor, controller, parts and/or labor. Again, theselections made in the prior screens are shown in the right hand side ofscreen 1040 at location 1044. Next, the user is led to screen 1052,shown in FIG. 41, which provides display options for the Installationand Warranty Tracking information. The information can be displayedbased on the manufacturer's serial number 1054, or the Unit Identifierused by the FEU owner 1056. Also, an option 1058 is provided to limitthe present inquiry to only warranties that have expired. Again, in theright hand portion of screen 1052 the prior selection criteria is setforth at location 1060.

[0191] The last query screen 1070 is shown in FIG. 42. In this screen,the user may select a date range for the Installation and WarrantyInformation being requested. This date range may be a start date 1072 aswell as an ending date 1074. At any of the query screens, it is possibleto go back to a prior screen by selecting the back button 1076 or tocancel the inquiry by selecting the cancel button 1078. Also, the priorselection screens (1020, 1022, 1030, 1040, 1042) have a “next” button togo to the subsequent query screen. Since screen 1070 is the last queryscreen, this screen has a “Get Report” button to display the informationbased on the selections made in the query screens.

[0192] Screen 1080 shown in FIG. 43 sets forth the resulting informationbased on the query criteria selected by the user. The information isprovided in columnar format. Also, the criteria selected for the queryis set forth in the upper portion of the screen. The columns ofinformation include the Product Category 1082, the Product Model(s)1084, the Location of the FEU 1086, the Unit Identifier or ID number1088, the Installation Date of the unit 1090, the hour meter reading1092, the odometer reading 1094, and a service history view column 1096,which if selected will provide the service history of the particularFEU. The displayed information also includes the warranty expirationdates 1098 for different components of the FEU which are covered bywarranty, including the frame 1100, the display 1102, the motor 1104,and motor fan 1106. Also, for the various components covered bywarranty, columns can be provided for separate warranty dates forreplacement parts 1108 and labor 1110. It will be appreciated that thewarranty expiration for parts and/or labor may differ for differentcomponents of the FEU.

[0193] Typically, the foregoing installation and warranty information isretained in a data silo 26 as opposed to an ICS for security reasons. Ina data silo, it is possible to limit the ability to enter, delete and/orchange installation and warranty expiration data.

[0194] As noted above, service for a FEU can be requested from FIG. 36.FIG. 44 illustrates an exemplary service request screen 1200 in whichthe user inserts particular information concerning the FEU, itslocation, and the requestor. This screen provides a space for typing inthe symptom that the FEU is exhibiting. The service request is forwardedto a service provider, with the information concerning the serviceprovider and the routing of the request to the service provider beingenterable into screen 1200.

[0195] In accordance with other features of the reporting interfaceaspect, the reporting interface includes the ability to requestadditional maintenance or action from one or more other recipients. Thisrequest is treated similar to a service alert message as discussedabove, except it originates with the user in the reporting interface.This feature is useful to clear a record or to simply give feedbackinformation from the user to the ICS or other party.

[0196] As will be appreciated from a reading of the above, the presentinvention provides numerous advantages over the prior art methods ofservice tracking and alerting. The use of multiple ICSs 20 toelectronically and wirelessly obtain and store real time serviceinformation in a centralized manner is efficient and provides tremendousaccess to actual service data. The connection to an accumulated datastorage unit 26 enables viewers to analyze FEU service issues over anextended period of time. The service alert messaging aspect shortens thetime needed to identify, diagnose, and repair or service a particularFEU.

[0197] Further, the reporting interface feature automatically formulatesservice information and makes the information instantaneously availableto the user, thus giving the user valuable insight into the operationand maintenance of the FEUs. This ability to view aggregated databetween clubs and between products simultaneously and on a real timebasis is unique in the fitness industry. Such service information may beused to level the usage of the FEUs, determine when an FEU should bereplaced, make better future FEU purchases, help the facility managersto better know their customers, enable facility managers to providebetter motivation or training to their customers, etc.

[0198] While a preferred embodiment of the invention has beenillustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changescan be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. For example, if only one data silo is used, it can beessentially integrated into the enterprise platform. Also, rather thanretaining any significant amount of data or records in the ICS, the datareceived by the ICS from the FEUs can be sent immediately to the datasilo 26 or to enterprise platform 32, or can be sent periodically andthen the data purged from the ICS. In this regard, the ICS does not haveto be configured to manipulate or store data other than the data beingaccumulated from the ICSs.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property orprivilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. A service informationtracking system for use with a fitness facility having a plurality offitness equipment units, the system comprising: (a) a control server togather service information from at least one of the fitness equipmentunits; the control server including a data storage system to store andmake accessible the information; and (b) a wireless communicationconnection between the control server and the fitness equipment units toaccommodate the gathering of service information.
 2. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the control server prepares and sends aservice alert message to at least one recipient.
 3. The system accordingto claim 2, wherein the message is generated if a fitness equipment unitexperiences a significant event.
 4. The system according to claim 1,wherein the control server prepares and makes accessible a servicereport based on the information in its data storage system.
 5. Thesystem according to claim 4, wherein the control server prepares andsends a service report to at least one recipient based on theinformation in its data storage system.
 6. The system according to claim1, further comprising an accumulated data storage system including apermanent data storage unit; the accumulated data storage systemgathering information from the control servers, and storing theinformation in the permanent data storage unit; wherein the serviceinformation gathered at the accumulated data storage system isaccessible by at least one user.
 7. The system according to claim 6,further comprising an enterprise level platform for integrating andaccessing the accumulated data storage system and the control servers,including providing user access to the server's information stored atthe control servers and/or accumulated data storage system.
 8. Thesystem according to claim 6, wherein a user may access serviceinformation from the accumulated data storage system from a remotelocation.
 9. The system according to claim 6, wherein a user may accessservice information from the control servers from a remote location. 10.The system according to claim 9, wherein the service information storedin the control server data storage unit is called real time data and theservice information stored in the permanent data storage unit is calledhistory service information, wherein a user may simultaneously accessthe real time service information and history service information from aremote location.
 11. The system according to claim 6, wherein thecontrol server sends service information to the accumulated data storagesystem according to a predefined time schedule.
 12. The system accordingto claim 6, wherein the control server sends service information to theaccumulated data storage system according to a predefined eventschedule.
 13. The system according to claim 6, wherein the a user mayaccess the service information from the accumulated data storage systemfrom a remote location by an Internet-based system.
 14. The systemaccording to claim 6, wherein a user may access service information fromthe accumulated data storage unit from a remote location by a wirelesscommunications protocol.
 15. The system according to claim 7, furthercomprising a plurality of data storage systems, each gatheringinformation from a plurality of control servers and an enterprise levelplatform for coordinating the plurality of accumulated data storagesystems and associated control servers, and providing user access to theinformation stored in the plurality of data storage systems andassociated control servers.
 16. An electronic method of obtaining aservice alert pertaining to exercise equipment, the method comprising;(a) using a control server at a fitness facility to gather serviceinformation from at least one fitness equipment unit via a wirelessconnection; (b) determining whether the service information gathered instep (a) is significant; and (c) automatically sending a service alertmessage to at least one predefined recipient regarding serviceinformation that is significant.
 17. The method according to claim 16,wherein sending a service alert is accomplished automatically.
 18. Themethod according to claim 16, wherein sending a service alert isaccomplished only when requested by at least one recipient.
 19. Themethod according to claim 16, wherein using the control server to gatherservice information includes storing the service information in adatabase associated with the control server.
 20. The method according toclaim 16, wherein the service information is considered significant ifthe fitness equipment unit requires servicing
 21. The method accordingto claim 16, wherein the service information is sent by the controlserver.
 22. The method according to claim 16, wherein the control servergathers real time service information; the method further comprisingusing an accumulated data storage unit to store history serviceinformation; the history service information being formed by theperiodic collection of the real time service information.
 23. The methodaccording to claim 22, wherein determining whether the real time serviceinformation is significant includes obtaining and evaluating the historyservice information.
 24. The method according to claim 22, whereinsending a service alert message includes sending from the control serverthe real time service information and sending from the accumulatedstorage unit the history service information.
 25. The method accordingto claim 22, wherein sending a service alert message includes sendingfrom the control server both the real time service information and thehistory service information.
 26. The method according to claim 22,wherein sending a service alert message includes sending from theaccumulated data storage unit both the real time service information andthe history service information.
 27. The method according to claim 16,wherein the control server gathers real time service information; themethod further comprising using an accumulated data storage unit tostore history service information; wherein sending a service alertmessage includes sending both real time service information and historyservice information.
 28. The method according to claim 27, wherein thehistory service information is formed from the periodic collection ofreal time service information via a wireless connection.
 29. The methodaccording to claim 27, wherein both the real time service informationand the history service information are sent by the control server. 30.The method according to claim 27, wherein both the real time serviceinformation and the history service information are sent by theaccumulated data storage unit.
 31. A method of obtaining serviceinformation from fitness equipment units, the method comprising; (a)requesting service information on the fitness equipment units from anaccumulated data storage unit having a permanent database; the requestincluding instructions defining what types of service information are tobe obtained; the database having been formed from an accumulation ofservice information from a plurality of temporary databases; and (b)receiving a service report from the accumulated data storage unitaccording to the instructions; wherein the service report includes aplethora of information.
 32. The method according to claim 31, whereinthe service information from the accumulated data storage unit includesboth current service information and history service information. 33.The method according to claim 31, wherein the service information fromthe accumulated data storage unit includes history service information;the method further comprising requesting current service informationfrom a plurality of temporary databases.
 34. The method according toclaim 33, wherein requesting service information is accomplished viawireless protocol.
 35. A method of obtaining service information, themethod comprising requesting service information from a control serverhaving a temporary database; the request including instructions definingwhat types of service information are to be obtained; and receiving aservice report from the control server according to the instructions.36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the service information isreal time service information.
 37. In a computer system having agraphical user interface including a display and a user interfaceselection device, a method comprising providing real time and historyservice information regarding fitness equipment units.